What: A study from researchers at the University of Washington looked at 11 years of screening data of women who had abnormal mammograms and checked to see if they got same-day diagnostic imaging and biopsy. They found Asian, Black, and Hispanic patients were less likely to get same-day services, and those in the lowest-income neighborhoods were 58% less likely to get services than those in the highest-income areas.

Key line: “’Getting a screening mammogram is an anxiety-inducing experience for a lot of people, and most patients I encounter want their results as soon as possible,’ [Dr. Marissa Lawson, assistant professor of radiology at the University of Washington School of Medicine] said. ‘If you’re able to do a diagnostic workup on the same day, instead of making them wait to schedule a follow-up visit — which might create a headache with work or transportation — that’s better for the patient. And if treatment is advised based on imaging and biopsy, we should do all we can to shorten the time between screening and treatment (for those diagnosed with breast cancer).’”

Source: University of Washington